AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
City of Chillicothe (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
The City of Chillicothe transformed a neglected lot in the Sixth Ward into its first neighborhood park, addressing a lack of green space in an area with high obesity rates and low life expectancy. The new pocket park features ADA-compliant walkways, benches, picnic tables and a playground, all within a fenced, well-lit space. Residents now have a safe place to gather and stay active, with one grandmother sharing that her grandkids "are so excited to walk to the park and play" while she enjoys sitting nearby.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
Tallahassee, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Youth will record oral histories from elders and install a public Story Bench with QR codes in a neighborhood park. Visitors will listen to local stories while building intergenerational connections and preserving community history.
Christiansted, VI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Educational, ADA‑friendly signage will be installed along a new walking trail at a historic site. The trail will support those volunteering with rescued animals, improve safety while dog‑walking and promote wellness for older adults.
Wayne, MI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Derby's Alley, located in downtown Wayne, was underutilized, but organizers with Wayne Ripple Effect saw its potential as a community gathering space. To showcase the alley, the organization held eight fitness classes, including Tai Chi and cardio drumming instruction. They also installed bistro tables, benches and overhead lighting in the alley. Since then, Wayne Main Street has improved landscaping in the alley and added signage.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Chillicothe, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: A planning study revealed a lack of accessibility throughout the Chillicothe Transit System, with some riders to sit on the ground while they wait for the bus. To address this, the City stepped in the make bus stops more accommodating for riders of all ages and abilities. First, project organizers identified areas of town with high numbers of older adult transit riders and passengers with mobility challenges. Then they installed benches -- as well as swing sets -- at several bus stops. They also added bus shelters at two stops and erected new signage at more than 60 others. In the future, project organizers plan to add a mural to the pavement at the local library's bus stop. Organizers say the improvements make waiting for the bus more comfortable, which may lead to increased ridership.
Chillicothe, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: The organization will replace worn pavement and install new handrails at an outdoor amphitheater. These upgrades will reduce fall risks and help older adults move safely and confidently during performances.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Ohio State Office
17 S. High Street
Suite 800
Columbus, OH 43215
United States